Associate Professor Suzanne Thiem succumbs to cancer

The MSU Department of Entomology regretfully shares that one of its professors, Suzanne M. Thiem, died Friday, Aug. 4, 2017, after a short bout with cancer. Thiem joined the department in 1991 as one of MSU’s first molecular biologists. Her principal area of interest was baculovirus interactions with insects, including the molecular mechanisms that determine virus host range and response to infection.

Over the years, Thiem assumed increased teaching duties including the Integrated Studies in Biology course taught to 180 undergraduates per semester. In addition, she played a critical role in the BioMolecular Sciences Gateway program where she reviewed over 400 applicants vying for spots in six different departments annually. Her assessment of students had a significant positive impact on their college careers and on the quality of students entering MSU programs in general.

Within the Department of Entomology, she served as graduate program director/advisor where her experience and judgment continually improved the quality of students entering the department. Once a member of the Department, students knew Thiem was available to listen to their concerns and would follow their progress through to completion. Thiem’s dedication to students was rewarded in 2015 by receiving the Ronald W. Wilson Endowed Excellence Teaching Award.

Thiem was appointed in the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources and the College of Natural Science and will be widely missed.